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Top 10 Temples in Bhutan- Beautifully Bhutan-ified!

Temples of Bhutan
Written by Amirthavarshini on November 16, 2022

Bhutan is a distinctive country that offers you a rich blend of spirituality and tradition. Immerse yourself in the activities that connect your soul with nature and culture. Bhutan is home to several marvellous Buddhist temples and monasteries. Being in Bhutan, and not visiting the majestic temple will leave your trip incomplete. These temples would be a good place to visit for the couples to seek blessing in their honeymoon as they start their journey of life. Take a look at the below-mentioned places and get to know about the architectural charm of Bhutan. Scroll on to read about the 10 of the top temples in the country of Bhutan.

Tiger's nest, one of the temples in Bhutan
Photo by Adli Wahid on Unsplash

Top 10 Temples In Bhutan:

Bhutan is blessed with some of the most amazing temples and here are the top 10 temples in the country.

#1 Kyichu Lhakhang

Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It was built by a Tibetian King Songsten Gempo in the 7th century. It is believed that this temple was built along with 108 other temples to invade a demon. Witness the age-old statues and beautiful architecture of the Bhutanese marvel. One can visit this temple for free of cost. There’s no entrance fee applicable for travellers.

front view of Kyichu Lhakhang , one of the best temples in bhutan
Image credits: Google Images
What not to miss?

Paro Taktsang, Haa Valley, Rinpung Dzong, National Museum of Bhutan.

Where?

Paro, Bhutan

#2 Jambay Lhakhang

Jambay Lhakhang was built by the Tibetian King, Songsten Goenpo in 659 AD. This temple was built to subdue the demon who was causing a hindrance to the spreading of Buddhism in the region. Apart from fine Buddhist statues and brilliant architecture, the place also offers you peace of mind and tranquillity. Catch the vibe that Jambay Lhakhang gives you and cherish the moment for a lifetime. 

What not to miss?

Jambay Lhakhang Festival, Bumthang Cultural Trek, Kurje Lhakhang, Bumthang Valley

#3 Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple is one of the important Buddhist temples in Bhutan. Devotees from across the world make their way to this temple seeking peace and positivity. It is located in the heart of the city depicting Buddhist grandeur. One can take pictures of this temple only with their eyes. Shooting pictures and videos using cameras is not allowed in this temple.

Arial view of Jokhang temple in Bhutan
Image credits: Google Images
What not to miss?

Barkhor Street, Ani Tsankhung Nunnery, Ramoche Monastery

Where?

Bumthang, Bhutan

#4 Takstang Temple

A trip to Bhutan will remain incomplete if one misses visiting the Tiger’s Nest. Taktsang Temple is one of the most famous temples in Bhutan. The temple is located on a higher altitude. To reach this place, one must climb through challenging terrain and experience thin air. An entree fee of 500INR is applicable in this temple. Get a mix of adventure and devotion on your visit to Taktsang Temple. 

What not to miss?

Kyichu Lhakhang, Drukgyel Dzong, Bhutan Grace Travels

Where?

Taktsang Trail, Paro 11001, Bhutan

#5 Tango Monastery

Have you ever fancied about living in a cave amidst the jungle? This famous temple in Bhutan is located inside a cave. It is surrounded by many other popular temples. This includes Trulku Lhakhang, Choeku Lhakhang, Guru Lhakhang, Longku Lhakhang, Gonkhang, and Namsey Lhakhang that make the shrine. An entrance fee of 500 is applicable to this temple.

Tango monastery architecture
Image credits: Google Images
What not to miss?

The gold and copper statue of Budha, Choeku Lhakhang, Guru Lhakhang, Longku Lhakhang, Gonkhang, and Namsey Lhakhang and a Meditation Cave are few of the many places to explore here.

Where?

Thimpu, Bhutan

#6 Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery

Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery is a vast area in geography and is a no brainer in the list of top 10 temples in Bhutan. It is a lively, active, and important temple complex in Bhutan. It comprises of three temples namely Guru Lhakhang, Sangay Lhakhang, and the Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang. The body print of Guru Rinpoche is treasured in a cave inside the oldest of these three temples. Various images, statues, and elaborate paintings will take you to the ancient medieval period. Head to the Kurjey Lhakhang Monastry and know more about the Bhutanese history and artefacts. 

What not to miss?

 It is considered as one of the most beautiful and sacred sites in Bumthang. Explore and learn about Guru Rinpoche and the people’s faith in this culture. 

Where?

Chokor valley, Bumthang, Bhutan

#7 Tamshing Lhakhang

Tamshing Lhakhang was built in honour of the great Terton Pema Lingpa during the 15th Century. This famous temple in Bhutan is surrounded by sites that projected the early Buddhism culture. This temple is not commonly visited by all the travellers. But taking the less trodden path will definitely give you enjoyment and satisfaction! Especially, visiting this temple that stood high in unifying various kingdoms is worth visiting. 

Interior of Tamshing Lhakhang
Image credits: Google Images
What not to miss?

Kurjey Lhakhang, Jakar Dzong, Jambay Lhakhang, Mebar Tsho, The Burning Lake.

Where?

Bumthang, Bhutan

#8 Gangteng Monastery

The Gangtey Monastery is located on a hilltop that gives magical views of the most beautiful Phobjikha Valley. Built during the 17th century, this Monastery is considered as the largest Nyngma Monastery in Bhutan. This spiritual complex comprises a temple in the centre surrounded by residential quarters for the monks. You can see a riot of colours and intricate architecture in this temple. The Gangtey Gompa celebrates a black-necked crane festival. Every winter, when cranes arrive in Phobjikha Valley, localities believe that the cranes circle the Monastery 3 times before they leave.

What not to miss?

Phobjikha, Gantey Goemba, The information centre of Balck Necked Crane, and the Kumbhu Lhakhang.

Where?

Phodrang, Bhutan

#9 Punakha Dzong

Everything perishes over time. But there are some exceptions. One such miraculous exemption is the idols at Punakha Dzong. Punakha Dzong is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan Known for its lake view. The temple is about 600 years old. However, the temple is not subjected to any damage to date. Though the temple has faced 3 major floods and devastating fire incidents as well. You can visit only the temple floor in Punakha Dzong. Do not miss visiting this beautiful place adorned with the Mochu river flowing beside.

Punakha Dzong lake view
Image credits: Google Images
What not to miss?

The Suspension Bridge, Samtengang Winter Trek, Punakha Tshechu and the famous Drubchen Festival.

Where?

Punakha, Bhutan

#10 Tashichho Dzong

Tashichho Dzong is one of the few Hindu temples in Bhutan. You can witness the king ascending the throne alongside the priests. Surrounded by lush green gardens, this temple houses many ministries. The temple is not open round the clock. So you must plan before you head to Tashichho Dzong. This temple is a must-visit place in your Bhutan itinerary.

What not to miss?

National Library of Bhutan, National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Royal Textile Academy, Bhutan Wonderland, Dzong Festivals, Buddhist Imagery, beautiful carvings.

Where?

Thimphu, Bhutan

Plan a family trip to this colourful place filled with positive vibes and spirituality. Your heart will definitely feel light when you return from Bhutan. Start Planning your very own trip to Bhutan. Head to the Pickyourtrail website and start crafting your beautiful itinerary. We are just a click away!

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